Expert Tips for Pool Closing Season

Above Ground Pools

• When closing an above ground swimming pool, you will want to bring water level down at least 2” below return jets.
• Make sure drain plugs are removed from the pump and filter. Remove the pressure gauge and sight glass from the filter.
• Disconnect plumbing from the wall of the pool and make sure the lines drain completely.
• Insert a plug into the return line.
• Leave any valves in an open position.
• Add your closing kit to the water after the water level is down (walk around edge of pool).
• Check the pool cover for holes before covering your pool.
• Be aware that letting more than 12” of water accumulate on the cover over winter can damage covers as well as warp top rails, so syphon water from the top whenever there is a thaw.

In-ground Pools

• Bring water level down at least 2” below returns.
• Blow out the skimmer and return lines with a shop vac or compressor & plug off lines while your blower is still running.
• Make sure you use a bottle plug (Gizzmo) for your pool skimmer.
• Be sure to pull drain plugs from all pieces of equipment as well as the pressure gauge and sight glass from the filter.
• Leave any valves in an open position.
• Disconnect salt cells and clean the cell for next year.
• Make sure the gas is turned off for pools with heaters.
• Walk closing kit chemicals around edge of the pool after water level is dropped.
• Inspect the cover for any holes before covering your pool.
• Be aware that letting more than 12” of water onto cover over winter can stress and damage your cover so it’s recommended that you drain or syphon water whenever there are thaws throughout the winter.
• Consult the builder of your pool for any tips they may have and remember that we do in-ground pool closings if you’d prefer to leave it to the professionals.